Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese Recipe
This Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken breasts with a tangy balsamic glaze, fresh cherry tomatoes, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, it balances savory herbs, sweetness from honey, and the creamy texture of melted cheese for a delightful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Balsamic Sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the balsamic sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey or maple syrup, dried basil, dried oregano, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Sear the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in flavor.
- Assemble in the baking dish: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the balsamic sauce evenly over the chicken. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is almost cooked through but still juicy inside.
- Add mozzarella cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over each chicken breast. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, slightly golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the chicken warm, pairing well with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, omit the mozzarella or substitute with a vegan cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional flavor variations.
- Using fresh garlic instead of minced from a jar will enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Keywords: Balsamic chicken, baked chicken breast, mozzarella chicken, easy chicken recipe, healthy chicken dinner
